If you guys are half the degenerate that I am, you’re already itching for 2017’s football season to kick off. I had a terrible season last year picking games, so you know I’m ready to get back in the saddle and get back to my winning ways from seasons before.
That said, it’s early. It’s hard to tell how a lot of these teams are going to shape up. There’s still a lot to compete for throughout training camp, the preseason, and, you know, the actual season. I can’t help but notice some interesting futures odds in both the NFL and college football, though – so hell, why not revive this Tank the 401k deal?
Let’s talk NFL first…..Super Bowl odds…
New England Patriots, 18/5 – I’d be curious to hear if given the option, whether you guys would take New England or the field. Wise men would say you always take the field, but what reason have the Patriots given us to doubt them? They’re the current favorites to win the Super Bowl and probably will remain there until the season starts. It’s probably safe money.
But, if you’re feeling risky…
Oakland Raiders, 15/1 – The Raiders were one of the best stories in the AFC last season. What a shame Derek Carr went down, or this team might have been able to give New England a run for their money. With the addition of Marshawn Lynch, this offense is loaded with talent. Again, it’s May..but you could win some big money here considering the Raiders are realistic Super Bowl contenders.
Tennessee Titans, 50/1 – If the Titans continue this upward trend, they’re going to become a sexy pick when it comes to dark horse contenders. General manager Jon Robinson has built this team the Patriot way, and had they played at the end of last season, a lot of people thought the Titans would’ve been able to hang. At 50/1, this could be your best bet to hit the jackpot.
New York Jets, 150/1 – I know, call me crazy. But, there are five NFL teams with 100/1 odds are larger. So, if you’re just throwing money down for shits and giggles, go with the Jets – a team that’s only a season removed from playoff contention. That defense has some valuable pieces. If they can figure out the quarterback situation, this isn’t a team that’s too far off from getting back in the hunt.
Now, on to College Football…
Alabama Crimson Tide, 15/4 – How do you bet against Alabama at this point? It’d be hard to. Still, the payoff isn’t really worth the risk. Not when Alabama is opening the season against Florida State before running the gauntlet that is the SEC West. They’ll be the favorite heading into the season, but I doubt they stay there throughout it.
Now, you want to talk dark horses?
USC, 15/2 – I’m incredibly high on USC this year with Sam Darnold at the helm. They’ll have the benefit of starting the season highly ranked, meaning if they can clean up the Pac-12, they should get one of the four playoff spots. Could be a good, safe bet here at 15/2.
Washington State, 85/1 – I’m sticking with the Pac-12 for my long shot pick. 85/1 makes for a tremendous payout, and with Luke Falk coming back, this offense will be as explosive as ever.
The Heisman Race
Sam Darnold, 5-1 – The USC quarterback is the favorite to win the Heisman and will probably end up being the #1 pick in next year’s NFL Draft. If given the option, always take the field here. Someone always emerges throughout the season who isn’t even talked about.
Well, that’s it, folks. I’ll touch base over the summer as the lines shift around.
Stoney Keeley is the Editor in Chief of The SoBros Network. A strong advocate of GSD (get shit done) and #BeBetter, he’s down to talk Tennessee Titans and Alabama Crimson Tide football over a beer any day. Check him out covering the WWE for WrestlingNews.co. Follow on Twitter @StoneyKeeley, @WrestlingNewsCo
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